THE ESSENTIALIST

How to Build a Versatile Shirt Wardrobe

Whether you’re making your corporate mark, doing the 3-2 split, or just getting started on your own journey, a versatile shirt wardrobe is a career must-have. As such, we’ve put together this essential guide to building a shirt wardrobe that is as high performing as you are.

THE RIGHT STUFF

Foundations

Simplicity lies at the heart of elegance. Timeless white and blue shirts are the sartorial pillars of every well-dressed man’s wardrobe. Get two of each (one with button cuffs and the other with French cuffs) to cover the business/formal spectrum. Throw in an Ivy-League-inspired, button-down collar shirt in blue or white, for casual chutzpah (and go sans-tie).

NO RISKY BUSINESS

Intermediate

Basics done, it’s time to introduce some patterns and colours. Finely striped and check shirts match back with nearly every suit and tie combo in your wardrobe (just avoid wearing three items with the same pattern). Introduce pink into your rotation to mellow out the blue-white dual track.

EXPRESS YOURSELF

Expert

Mastering the shirt wardrobe involves injecting some much-needed individuality. Bring on the power patterns and bold colours. Think holistically about your entire wardrobe instead of making decisions in isolation (i.e. Does this shirt go with your existing suit and ties?). For a safe bet, start with thick butcher stripes, polka dots and complex checks to stay buttoned-up but sociable.